Independently removable nucleic acid sequencing system and method

ABSTRACT

A technique for sequencing nucleic acids in an automated or semi-automated manner is disclosed. Sample arrays of a multitude of nucleic acid sites are processed in multiple cycles to add nucleotides to the material to be sequenced, detect the nucleotides added to sites, and to de-block the added nucleotides of blocking agents and tags used to identify the last added nucleotide. Multiple parameters of the system are monitored to enable diagnosis and correction of problems as they occur during sequencing of the samples. Quality control routines are run during sequencing to determine quality of samples, and quality of the data collected.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 12/020,721, which is herein incorporated in its entirety byreference and claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/897,646, entitled “Image Data Efficient Genetic Sequencing Method andSystem,” filed Jan. 26, 2007, which is herein incorporated in itsentirety by reference, and claims priority of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 60/897,647, entitled “Nucleic Acid Sequencing System andMethod,” filed Jan. 26, 2007, which is herein incorporated in itsentirety by reference.

This application is also related to a U.S. patent application titled“NUCLEIC ACID SEQUENCING SYSTEM AND METHOD USING A SUBSET OF SITES OF ASUBSTRATE” which is being filed concurrently with the presentapplication and is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/020,721. The disclosure of “NUCLEIC ACIDSEQUENCING SYSTEM AND METHOD USING A SUBSET OF SITES OF A SUBSTRATE” isherein incorporated in its entirety by reference.

BACKGROUND

Genetic sequencing has become an increasingly important area of geneticresearch, promising future uses in diagnostic and other applications. Ingeneral, genetic sequencing consists of determining the order ofnucleotides for a nucleic acid such as a fragment of RNA or DNA.Relatively short sequences are typically analyzed, and the resultingsequence information may be used in various bioinformatics methods toalign fragments against a reference sequence or to logically fitfragments together so as to reliably determine the sequence of much moreextensive lengths of genetic material from which the fragments werederived. Automated, computer-based examination of characteristicfragments have been developed, and have been used more recently ingenome mapping, analysis of genetic variation between individuals,identification of genes and their function, and so forth. However,existing techniques are highly time-intensive, and resulting genomicinformation is accordingly extremely costly.

A number of alternative sequencing techniques are presently underinvestigation and development. These include the use of microarrays ofgenetic material that can be manipulated so as to permit paralleldetection of the ordering of nucleotides in a multitude of fragments ofgenetic material. The arrays typically include many sites formed ordisposed on a substrate. Additional materials, typically singlenucleotides or strands of nucleotides (oligonucleotides) are introducedand permitted or encouraged to bind to the template of genetic materialto be sequenced, thereby selectively marking the template in a sequencedependent manner. Sequence information may then be gathered by imagingthe sites. In certain current techniques, for example, each nucleotidetype is tagged with a fluorescent tag or dye that permits analysis ofthe nucleotide attached at a particular site to be determined byanalysis of image data.

Although such techniques show promise for significantly improvingthroughput and reducing the cost of sequencing, further progress in thespeed and reliability of the analytical steps involved in sequencing isdesirable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Some embodiments provide improvements in the field of nucleic acidsequencing, especially with regard to instrumentation and analysismethods. The techniques may be used for any desired sequencing, and willtypically be most useful in sequencing of DNA and RNA (including cDNA).The techniques are based upon analysis of nucleotide sequences insamples supported on a substrate, and typically containing a multitudeof individual sites such as in a nucleic acid array. Moreover, thetechniques may be used with a variety of sequencing approaches ortechnologies, including techniques often referred to assequencing-by-synthesis (SBS), sequencing-pyrosequencing and so forth.The present techniques have been found or are believed to provide formore highly automated or higher quality sequencing, permitting higherthroughput and ultimately reduced sequence costs.

Accordingly, some embodiments provide a method for sequencing aplurality of nucleic acids which can include the steps of (a) beginninga cycle of a sequencing procedure for an array having a plurality ofnucleic acids via a system capable of determining nucleotide sequence ofthe array; (b) evaluating a parameter of the system; (c) altering thesequencing procedure for the array based on the parameter; and (d)performing another cycle of the sequencing procedure for the array.

Some embodiments further provide a method for sequencing a plurality ofnucleic acids which includes the steps of (a) performing an automatednucleic acid sequencing operation; (b) generating data based upon theoperation; and (c) evaluating a quality of the sample based upon thedata.

Also provided is a method for sequencing a plurality of nucleic acids,including the steps of (a) performing a cycle of a sequencing procedurefor an array having a plurality of nucleic acids via a system capable ofdetermining nucleotide sequence of the array; (b) detecting a pluralityof signals indicative of nucleotides present at sites of the array; (c)evaluating the signals to determine quality of the array; and (d)altering the sequencing procedure for the array based on the quality.

A method for sequencing a plurality of nucleic acids can include stepsof (a) introducing a process fluid to an array or nucleic acids in asystem performing a nucleic acid sequencing procedure for the array; and(b) performing via the system at least one cycle of the sequencingprocedure for the array; wherein the process fluid is heated or cooledprior to introduction to the array.

A method for sequencing a plurality of nucleic acids can include thesteps of (a) performing a cycle of a sequencing procedure for an arraycomprising a plurality of nucleic acids via a system capable ofdetermining nucleotide sequence of the array; (b) detecting a pluralityof signals indicative of nucleotides present at sites of the array; and(c) repeating steps (a) and (b); wherein scheduling of steps (a) and (b)is temporally decoupled.

A method for sequencing a plurality of nucleic acids can include thesteps of (a) performing a cycle of a sequencing procedure for an arrayhaving a plurality of nucleic acids via a system capable of determiningnucleotide sequence of the array; (b) imaging the array to generateimage data; (c) deriving sequence data from the image data, the sequencedata indicative of nucleotide species present at a position in thesequence of a nucleic acid of the array; (d) repeating steps (a), (b)and (c); and (e) retaining the sequence data and deleting at least aportion of the image data from which the sequence data was derived priorto completion of the sequencing procedure on the array.

Some embodiments also provide a system for sequencing a plurality ofnucleic acids. The system can include a plurality of processing stationsconfigured to add tagged nucleotides to sites of an array; and aplurality of detecting stations interspersed with the processingstations for detecting nucleic acid sequences of the sites andgenerating data representative thereof.

Also provided is a system for sequencing a plurality of nucleic acidsincluding a fluidics handling system for facilitating assay reactionprotocols; an imaging system for acquiring sequencing data; diagnosticcomponents configured to measure system parameters during operation ofthe sequencing system; quality evaluation circuitry configured to assessa quality of the sequencing system based upon a multiple step analysis;and control circuitry configured to alter operating conditions of thesequencing system based upon data collected by the diagnostic componentsor the quality evaluation circuitry.

DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages will become betterunderstood when the following detailed description is read withreference to the accompanying drawings in which like charactersrepresent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatical overview of a sequencing system incorporatingaspects of the present technique;

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatical overview of a multi-station sequencing systemimplementing aspects of the present technique;

FIG. 3 is a diagrammatical overview of an exemplary imaging system thatmay be used in conjunction with the system of FIG. 1 or 2 for detectionof sequences at individual sites in an array;

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatical representation of sequencing in the systemsof the preceding figures in accordance with an SBS technique, as oneexample of the sequencing approach that may be used in the systems;

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating exemplary logic for control of thesequencing and sample quality in accordance with aspects of the presenttechnique;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating exemplary logic for an initialsequencing cycle quality control approach in accordance with aspects ofthe present technique, such as to determine quality of the sample to betested;

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating exemplary logic for a control ofquality of base or nucleotide addition in accordance with the presenttechnique; and

FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating exemplary logic for de-blockingquality control in accordance with aspects of the present technique.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A number of different sequencing techniques may be used with the presentapplication. A number of these techniques involve an array of siteswhere each site sequences a particular fragment, and may permit paralleldetection of the ordering of nucleotides in a multitude of fragments ofgenetic material. These sites may include target fragments immobilized(hybridized to a capture molecule, captured by an enzyme such as apolymerase or a nuclease, coupled to a hole or well or other detectionarea, covalently bound, etc.) at the sites, may include detection sites,may include both detection sites and fragments, and/or may include someother arrangement. These include the use of microarrays of geneticmaterial that can be manipulated so as to permit parallel detection ofthe ordering of nucleotides in a multitude of fragments of geneticmaterial. The arrays typically include many sites formed or disposed ona substrate.

The fragments (whether immobilized at a site or simply analyzed due tointeraction with a site), may be amplified such that there are multiplecopies of a particular fragment (e.g. the original fragment; acomplement to the original fragment, a portion of the fragment or itscomplement, a transcribed or reverse transcribed fragment, complement,or portion; etc.), or may be analyzed as a single copy. Amplification,if used, may create multiple copies of a fragment by creating multiplestrands of the fragment or may create multiple copies by creating asingle molecule that has multiple repeats of the fragment. The fragmentsmay be in their original form or may be transcribed or otherwisemodified (e.g. by the inclusion of non-natural nucleotides, byassociating the sequence with a different sequence, etc.). The fragments(including single molecules) may be single stranded or may be doublestranded (single molecule being used broadly to refer to a moleculecomplex if the fragment is double-stranded).

Additional materials, typically single nucleotides or strands ofnucleotides (oligonucleotides) may be introduced and permitted orencouraged to bind to a template of genetic material (e.g. a fragment)to be sequenced, thereby selectively marking the template in a sequencedependent manner. Sequence information may then be gathered bycollecting data from the sites (e.g. optical imaging, electronicimaging, or some other method for collecting data). In certain currenttechniques, for example, each nucleotide type (e.g. single nucleotide,oligonucleotide, etc.) is tagged with a fluorescent tag (e.g. dye,pigment, etc.) that permits analysis of the nucleotide added orotherwise detected at a particular site to be determined by analysis ofoptical image data. These tags may then be removed by cleaving the tagsin a separate step, or may be removed by natural processes (e.g. byattaching the tag to a phosphate of the nucleotide that gets removed byaction of the polymerase adding an additional nucleotide). In someembodiments, as with fluorescent labels, the labels may be opticallabels. In other embodiments, the labels may be non-optical labels (e.g.may be labels that change an electrical characteristic detectable by adetection circuit).

In some embodiments, such as pyrosequencing, nucleotides may be addedwithout labels and detection is based on detecting the pyrophosphatethat is released during the extension process of the polymerase. In someembodiments of pyrosequencing, the pyrophosphate is used in a lightgenerating reaction (e.g. is converted to ATP and is detected usingluciferase) and is subject to optical detection. In some embodiments ofpyrosequencing, the pyrophosphate is used in an electronic detectionstep (e.g. is converted by phosphoric acid which changes a currentdetectable by detection circuitry such as a detection electrode).

In some embodiments, the sites may be pores (e.g. nanopores) which maybe solid state pores or non-solid-state pores (e.g. organic pores suchas pores made from biological materials). The pores may havefunctionality associated with them that facilitates detection of thesequence (e.g. may include enzymes or other materials such aspolymerases attached near the pore to control the rate at whichnucleotides flow through the pore, may include enzymes or othermaterials such as exonucleases which cleave off one or a few bases at atime, etc.). The pores may have a detection circuit associated with them(e.g. a patch clamp circuit, a tunneling electrode circuit, an opticalsensor that detects labels on the fragments, etc.) that detects asequence based on interaction of the fragment with the pore (e.g.passing the fragment through the pore, passing single nucleotides of thefragment through the pore, being peeled off by the pore, etc.).

Turning now to the drawings, referring first to FIG. 1, a diagrammaticalrepresentation of a sequencing system 10 is illustrated as including asequencer 12 designed to determine sequences of genetic material (DNA,RNA, etc.) of a sample 14. The sequencer may function in a variety ofmanners, and based upon a variety of techniques, including sequencing byprimer extension using labeled nucleotides, as in a presentlycontemplated embodiment, as well as other sequencing techniques such assequencing by ligation or pyrosequencing. In general, and as describedin greater detail below, the sequencer 12 may progressively move samplesthrough reaction cycles and imaging cycles to progressively buildoligonucleotides by binding nucleotides to templates at individual siteson the sample. In a typical arrangement, the sample will be prepared bya sample preparation system 16. This process may include amplificationof fragments of DNA or RNA on a support to create a multitude of sitesof DNA or RNA fragments the sequence of which are determined by thesequencing process. Exemplary methods for producing sites of amplifiednucleic acids suitable for sequencing include, but are not limited to,rolling circle amplification (RCA) (Lizardi et al., Nat. Genet.19:225-232 (1998)), bridge PCR (Adams and Kron, Method for PerformingAmplification of Nucleic Acid with Two Primers Bound to a Single SolidSupport, Mosaic Technologies, Inc. (Winter Hill, Mass.); WhiteheadInstitute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Mass., (1997); Adessi etal., Nucl. Acids Res. 28:E87 (2000); Pemov et al., Nucl. Acids Res.33:e11(2005); or U.S. Pat. No. 5,641,658), polony generation (Mitra etal., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 100:5926-5931 (2003); Mitra et al.,Anal. Biochem. 320:55-65(2003)), or clonal amplification on beads usingemulsions (Dressman et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 100:8817-8822(2003)) or ligation to bead-based adapter libraries (Brenner et al.,Nat. Biotechnol. 18:630-634 (2000); Brenner et al., Proc. Natl. Acad.Sci. USA 97:1665-1670 (2000)); Reinartz, et al., Brief Funct. GenomicProteomic 1:95-104 (2002)). The sample preparation system 16 willtypically dispose the sample, which may be in the form of an array ofsites (amplified nucleic acid sites, single nucleic acid sites, etc.),in a sample container for processing and imaging.

The sequencer 12 includes a fluidics control/delivery system 18 and adetection system 20. The fluidics control/delivery system 18 willreceive a plurality of process fluids as indicated generally byreference numeral 22, for circulation through the sample containers ofthe samples in process, designated generally by reference numeral 24. Aswill be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the process fluids willvary depending upon the particular stage of sequencing. For example, inSBS using labeled nucleotides, the process fluids introduced to thesample will include a polymerase and tagged nucleotides of the fourcommon DNA types, each nucleotide having a unique fluorescent tag and ablocking agent linked to it. The fluorescent tag allows the detectionsystem 20 to detect which nucleotides were last added to probeshybridized to template nucleic acids at individual sites in the array,and the blocking agent prevents addition of more than one nucleotide percycle at each site. In other processes, such as sequencing by ligation,the process fluids at this stage will include query probes with uniquefluorescent tags attached thereto. Similarly, the query probes will bindto the templates at each site in a configuration that allows ligation ofthe query probes to an anchor primer and may be detected by thedetection system 20 for sequencing of the templates at each site.

At other phases of the sequencing cycles, the process fluids 22 willinclude other fluids and reagents such as reagents for removingextension blocks from nucleotides, cleaving nucleotide linkers, or forremoving bases from ligated oligonucleotides to release a newlyextendable probe terminus. For example, once reactions have taken placeat individual sites in the array of the samples, the initial processfluid containing the tagged nucleotides will be washed from the samplein one or more flushing operations. The sample may then undergodetection, such as by the optical imaging at the detection system 20.Subsequently, reagents will be added by the fluidics control/deliverysystem 18 to de-block the last added nucleotide and remove thefluorescent tag from each. The fluidics control/delivery system 18 willtypically then again wash the sample, which is then prepared for asubsequent cycle of sequencing. Exemplary fluidic and detectionconfigurations that can be used in the methods and devices set forthherein are described in WO 07/123744. In general, such sequencing maycontinue until the quality of data derived from sequencing degrades dueto cumulative loss of yield or until a predetermined number of cycleshave been completed, as described in greater detail below.

The quality of samples 24 in process as well as the quality of the dataderived by the system, and the various parameters used for processingthe samples is controlled by a quality/process control system 26. Thequality/process control system 26 will typically include one or moreprogrammed processors, or general purpose or application-specificcomputers which communicate with sensors and other processing systemswithin the fluidics control/delivery system 18 and the detection system20. A number of process parameters, discussed in further detail below,may be used for sophisticated quality and process control, for example,as part of a feedback loop that can change instrument operationparameters during the course of a sequencing run.

The sequencer 12 also communicates with a system control/operatorinterface 28 and ultimately with a post-processing system 30. Hereagain, the system control/operator interface 28 will typically include ageneral purpose or application-specific computer designed to monitorprocess parameters, acquired data, system settings, and so forth. Theoperator interface may be generated by a program executed locally or byprograms executed within the sequencer 12. In general, these may providevisual indications of the health of the systems or subsystems of thesequencer, the quality of the data acquired, and so forth. The systemcontrol/operator interface 28 may also permit human operators tointerface with the system to regulate operation, initiate and interruptsequencing, and any other interactions that may be desired with thesystem hardware or software. For instance, the system control/operatorinterface 28 may automatically undertake and/or modify steps to beperformed in a sequencing procedure, without input from a humanoperator. Alternatively or additionally, the system control/operatorinterface 28 may generate recommendations regarding steps to beperformed in a sequencing procedure and display these recommendations tothe human operator. This mode would, of course, allow for input from thehuman operator before undertaking and/or modifying steps in thesequencing procedure. In addition, the system control/operator interface28 may provide an option to the human operator allowing the humanoperator to select certain steps in a sequencing procedure to beautomatically performed by the sequencer 12 while requiring input fromthe human operator before undertaking and/or modifying other steps. Inany event, allowing both automated and operator interactive modes mayprovide increased flexibility in performing the sequencing procedure. Inaddition, the combination of automation and human-controlled interactionmay further allow for a system capable of creating and modifying newsequencing procedures and algorithms through adaptive machine learningbased on the inputs gathered from human operators. An automated systemmay have multiple different protocols stored for carrying out differentorders of certain steps. The protocols may be pre-loaded in the system,may be set based on user interaction (e.g. may be adaptively learnedprotocols, may be actively programmed by the user, etc.), may includeboth pre-set and user-interaction-based protocols, and/or may includeprotocols (or combinations of protocols) added in some other manner. Insome embodiments, a user may be given an option to select a particularprotocol of the set of stored protocols, and/or may be able to input acustom protocol (which may or may not be savable to the storedprotocols).

The post-processing system 30 will typically also include one or moreprogrammed computers that receive detected information, which may be inthe form of pixilated image data and derive sequence data from the imagedata. The post-processing system 30 may include image recognitionalgorithms which distinguish between colors of dyes attached tonucleotides that bind at individual sites as sequencing progresses(e.g., by analysis of the image data encoding specific colors orintensities), and logs the sequence of the nucleotides at the individualsite locations. The post-processing system 30 may include adaptive limitsystems that may adaptively adopt limits used to distinguish bases basedon the data received (e.g. electrical characteristic limits such asdetected current boundaries for different bases, frequency limits suchas wavelength frequency or impedance frequency limits, etc.)Progressively, then, the post-processing system 30 will build sequencelists for the fragment(s) analyzed at individual sites of the samplearray which can be further processed to establish genetic informationfor extended lengths of material by various bioinformatics algorithms.

The sequencing system 10 may be configured to handle individual samplesor may be designed for higher throughput in a manner generallyrepresented in FIG. 2. FIG. 2 illustrates a multi-station sequencer 32in which multiple stations are provided for the delivery of reagents andother fluids, and for detection of progressively building sequences ofnucleotides. In the illustrated embodiment, the sequencer 32 may includea series of stations disposed in a plane, such as on a table, or inmultiple planes. To allow samples to be inserted into the sequencer, aninsertion/retrieval station 34 will typically be provided. This stationwill be physically configured to allow a human operator or robot toinsert a sample into the device and lodge the sample in a process flowfor sequencing operations to be automatically performed at the variousadditional stations. From the insertion/retrieval station 34, amechanical conveying system (not illustrated) will serve to move thesamples 24 and process between the other stations. In some embodiments,the samples will not be moved after insertion. In this case, theinsertion station may also serve as the detection station, or may servesome other purpose.

In some embodiments, the system may have an insertion detection system.In some embodiments, a container containing the sample (or some otherpiece associated with the substrate) may have a device that triggers thestation to indicate insertion. For example, the device may be a pin(e.g. a projection, a metal conductor molded into a pice, etc.) thatmates with a corresponding receptacle (e.g. a plug, a second pin, etc.)at the insertion/retrieval station. The mating of the pin may trigger aresponse in the station or may trigger a response in a system carriedwith the sample (e.g. in a same container as the sample, etc.) Asanother example, the device may be a switch (e.g. an inductivelytriggered switch, etc.) that is triggered by or as a result ofinsertion. If an insertion detection takes place in a system carriedwith the sample, the insertion may be recorded whether the sequencingsystem is powered or unpowered. For example, a switch may be latchedbased on physical insertion, which latching may be irreversible, or maybe reversible in response to a stimulus (e.g. in response to adelatching signal from the system, etc.). Latching may be physicallatching that holds the switch in place, or may be electronicallyrecorded latch such that a flag is triggered which flag acts as thelatch. A memory (of the system, carried with the sample, etc.) may beconfigured to log insertion events.

If pins are carried with the sample, multiple pins of different lengthmay be used. Pins of different length may provide a number of differentfunctions. For example, pins of different length may serve to dissipateelectrical shocks, to indicate preparation for insertion before actualinsertion (e.g. to allow the system to prepare its fluidics, electrical,communication, and/or other systems for insertion), to indicate whetherthe sample is only partially inserted, and/or to perform some otherfunction.

Once a sample is inserted (e.g. a container containing the sample isinserted), a locking mechanism may prevent the sample from being removedfrom the system until the system is prepared to release the sample (e.g.sequencing is complete, the system receives a request to remove thesample and takes steps to preserve the sample, and/or some othercondition is met.

In some embodiments, a container carrying the sample may include a userinput device to allow the user to request removal of the sample. Forexample, the system may include a switch (e.g. a switch connected to ahandle). Actuation of the switch may cause a signal to be generated andtransmitted to the system. In response, the system may take steps tofacilitate removal of the sample (e.g. move the sample to the insertionstation if the sample is movable in the system, prepare the sample forremoval, etc.).

The system may also provide feedback (e.g. local feedback in proximityto the sample) to a user indicating status of the sample. The feedbackmay be a display associated with the sample (e.g. may be provided in acontainer carrying the sample, may be provided at a station where thesample is located for a movable sample, may be associated with a fixedsite where the sample is located for stationary samples, etc.). Thedisplay may be a single light source (e.g. an LED such as a single colorLED or a multi-color LED), may be multiple (e.g. an array of) singlelight sources, may be a multidimensional display (e.g. an LCD display,an OLED display, etc.), and/or may be some other type of display. Thefeedback may include feedback regarding preparation of a substrate forprocessing, status in any of the processing steps, ability of the sampleto be removed, an indication (e.g. a warning, a positive feedback thatconditions are acceptable, etc.) regarding processing conditions (e.g.site density, environmental conditions such as temperature, availabilityof reagents, noise in the data, etc.), estimated time to completesequencing and/or any sub-step for sequencing, and/or any otherinformation relating to the system. Any of this information could alsoor alternatively be displayed remote from the sample (e.g. at a displayconnected to a central server or other computing system associated withthe sequencing system).

The samples may also include a memory (e.g. a non-volatile memory,and/or a non-volatile memory), which may be a single memory component ormay be composed of multiple separate memories, associated with thesample. The memory may be configured to store one or more of informationabout the sample (e.g. entered before processing), information (e.g. ina log) relating to environmental or other conditions during theprocessing (e.g. obtained from sensors carried with the sample, sensorscarried by the sequencing device, room sensors, and/or some othersource), information (e.g. in a log) relating to events that occurredduring processing (e.g. sequencing, preparation for sequencing, etc.),data related to the sequence of biopolymers of the sample (e.g. raw datasuch as optical or electrical signals, processed raw data usable toderive sequence data, and/or actual sequence data), cut-offs (or othercriteria) used to define different nucleotides, and/or some other typeof information.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the additional stations willinclude fluidic stations 36, detection stations 38, and de-blockingstations 40, although other stations may be included or interspersedwith these stations depending upon the process and sequence of stepsdesired for a particular type of sequencing reaction. For example,fluidic stations 36 will serve to introduce reagents and other processfluids to the samples 24, such as to allow for binding of individualnucleotides as sequencing progresses. The fluidic stations 36 may alsoallow for washing or flushing reagents from the samples. Alternativelyor additionally, the stage supporting the sample can be configured toallow removal of liquids, including reagents present in the liquids,from samples independent of their location in the system. For example,the stage can include valve actuated vacuum lines that can be activatedfor removal of liquids from the sample when the sample is at any stationor even when the sample is between stations. A useful vacuum system isdescribed, for example, in pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/521,574, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The detection stations 38 may include any desired detection circuitry,such as optical (e.g. a multiple pixel device such as a CCD, a CMOS, aphotodiode array or a non-pixel device such as a photodiode, whichoptical device may include filters—particularly multiple filters whichmay or may not be movable or otherwise changeable changeable—forlimiting detection to certain colors, and which optical detectiondevices may be optimized from their standard conditions for betterdetecting′ a certain wavelength region or regions), electrical (e.g. anelectrode or other electrical system which may detect current,impedance, voltage, resistance, or some other electricalcharacteristic), or other equipment designed to detect the particularnucleotides added at individual sites of the sample as the sequencingprogresses.

An exemplary optical system for such detection is described below withreference to FIG. 3. Features of the exemplary optical detection systemmay be used in any detection system, including other types of opticaldetection systems and non-optical detection systems. The de-blockingstation 40 may be employed for delivering reagents used to removeprotective molecules that prevent binding of more than one nucleotide ata time, particularly in SBS systems. The de-blocking station 40 may alsobe used to cleave fluorescent dyes and similar molecules from thenucleotides or oligonucleotides as sequencing progresses.

In general, the samples 24 may progress through the sequencer 32 in aprogressive flow direction as indicated generally by arrow 42. This maycorrespond to a normal flow of the sample through the sequencer.However, the samples may retrogress in the stations as indicatedgenerally by reference numeral 44. Such retrogression may be desired topermit re-imaging of the samples, reintroduction of reagents,re-flushing, or generally any repetitive operation that can be performedby a preceding station. It should also be noted that the progression ofsamples in the system, as also in the system of FIG. 1, may be decoupledin a temporal sense. That is, not all samples need to progress throughthe stations for the same number of cycles nor do all samples need toenter and exit a multi-cycle process in the same cycle.

Samples may be removed from processing, reprocessed, and scheduling ofsuch processing may be altered in real time, particularly where thefluidics control system 18 or the quality/process control system 26detect that one or more operations were not performed in an optimal ordesired manner. In embodiments wherein a sample is removed from theprocess or experiences a pause in processing that is of a substantialduration, the sample can be placed in a storage state. Placing thesample in a storage state can include altering the environment of thesample or the composition of the sample to stabilize biomoleculereagents, biopolymers or other components of the sample. Exemplarymethods for altering the sample environment include, but are not limitedto, reducing temperature to stabilize sample constituents, addition ofan inert gas to reduce oxidation of sample constituents, and removingfrom a light source to reduce photobleaching or photodegradation ofsample constituents. Exemplary methods of altering sample compositioninclude, without limitation, adding stabilizing solvents such asantioxidants, glycerol and the like, altering pH to a level thatstabilizes enzymes, or removing constituents that degrade or alter otherconstituents. In addition, certain steps in the sequencing procedure maybe performed before removing the sample from processing. For instance,if it is determined that the sample should be removed from processing,the sample may be directed to the fluidics control/delivery system 18 sothat the sample may be washed before storage. Again, these steps may betaken to ensure that no information from the sample is lost.

Moreover, sequencing operations may be interrupted by the sequencer 12at any time upon the occurrence of certain predetermined events. Theseevents may include, without limitation, unacceptable environmentalfactors such as undesirable temperature, humidity, vibrations or straylight; inadequate reagent delivery or hybridization; unacceptablechanges in sample temperature; unacceptable sample sitenumber/quality/distribution; decayed signal-to-noise ratio; insufficientimage data; and so forth. It should be noted that the occurrence of suchevents need not require interruption of sequencing operations. Rather,such events may be factors weighed by the quality/process control system26 in determining whether sequencing operations should continue. Forexample, if an image of a particular cycle is analyzed in real time andshows a low signal for that channel, the image can be re-exposed using alonger exposure time, or have a particular chemical treatment repeated.If the image shows a bubble in a flow cell, the instrument canautomatically flush more reagent to remove the bubble, then re-recordthe image. If the image shows zero signal for a particular channel inone cycle due to a fluidics problem, the instrument can automaticallyhalt scanning and reagent delivery for that particular channel, thussaving on analysis time and reagent consumption.

Although the system has been exemplified above with regard to a systemin which a sample interfaces with different stations by physicalmovement of the sample it will be understood that the principles setforth herein are also applicable to a system in which the stepsoccurring at each station are achieved by other means not requiringmovement of the sample. For example, reagents present at the stationscan be delivered to a sample by means of a fluidic system connected toreservoirs containing the various reagents. Similarly, an optics systemcan be configured to detect a sample that is in fluid communication withone or more reagent stations. Thus, detection steps can be carried outbefore, during or after delivery of any particular reagent describedherein. Accordingly, samples can be effectively removed from processingby discontinuing one or more processing steps, be it fluid delivery oroptical detection, without necessarily physically removing the samplefrom its location in the device.

As in the system of FIG. 1, the various stations are coupled to thefluidics control system 18 and to the quality/process control system 26to permit control of these operations, as well as control of quality ofboth the samples and of the operations performed at the variousprocessing stations. Moreover, as in the system of FIG. 1, the variousstations of the sequencer are linked to a system control/operatorinterface 28, and data collected is ultimately forwarded to apost-processing system 30 where sequence data is derived from thedetected data, typically image data generated by the detection stations38.

In some embodiments, a system can be used to continuously sequencenucleic acids in a plurality of different samples. Systems can beconfigured to include an arrangement of samples and an arrangement ofstations for carrying out sequencing steps. The samples in thearrangement of samples can be placed in a fixed order and at fixedintervals relative to each other. For example, an arrangement of nucleicacid arrays can be placed along the outer edge of a circular table.Similarly, the stations can be placed in a fixed order and at fixedintervals relative to each other. For example, the stations can beplaced in a circular arrangement having a perimeter that corresponds tothe layout for the arrangement of sample arrays. Each of the stationscan be configured to carry out a different manipulation in a sequencingprotocol. The two arrangements (i.e. sample arrays and stations) can bemoved relative to each other such that the stations carry out desiredsteps of a reaction scheme at each reaction site. The relative locationsof the stations and the schedule for the relative movement can correlatewith the order and duration of reaction steps in the sequencing reactionscheme such that once a sample array has completed a cycle ofinteracting with the full set of stations, then a single sequencingreaction cycle is complete. For example, primers that are hybridized tonucleic acid targets on an array can each be extended by addition of asingle nucleotide, detected and de-blocked if the order of the stations,spacing between the stations, and rate of passage for the arraycorresponds to the order of reagent delivery and reaction time for acomplete sequencing reaction cycle. In some embodiments, additionalfragments to be sequenced can be added by a processing station (e.g.through a fluidics station).

In accordance with the configuration set forth above, and described infurther detail below, each lap (or full revolution in embodiments wherea circular table is used) completed by an individual sample array cancorrespond to determination of a single nucleotide for each of thetarget nucleic acids on the array (i.e. including the steps ofincorporation, imaging, cleavage and de-blocking carried out in eachcycle of a sequencing run). Furthermore, several sample arrays presentin the system (for example, on the circular table) concurrently movealong similar, repeated laps through the system, thereby resulting incontinuous sequencing by the system. Using a system or method of someembodiments, reagents can be actively delivered or removed from a firstsample array in accordance with a first reaction step of a sequencingcycle while incubation, or some other reaction step in the cycle, occursfor a second sample array. Thus, a set of stations can be configured ina spatial and temporal relationship with an arrangement of sample arrayssuch that reactions occur at multiple sample arrays concurrently even asthe sample arrays are subjected to different steps of the sequencingcycle at any given time, thereby allowing continuous and simultaneoussequencing to be performed. The advantages of such a circular system areapparent when the chemistry and imaging times are disproportionate. Forsmall flow cells that only take a short time to scan, it is advantageousto have a number of flow cells running in parallel in order to optimizethe time the instrument spends acquiring data. When the imaging time andchemistry time are equal, a system that is sequencing a sample on asingle flow cell spends half; the time performing a chemistry cyclerather than an imaging cycle, and therefore a system that can processtwo flow cells could have one on the chemistry cycle and one on theimaging cycle. When the imaging time is ten fold less than the chemistrytime, the system can have ten flow cells at various stages of thechemistry process whilst continually acquiring data.

Some embodiments provide a system that is configured to allowreplacement of a first sample array with a second sample array while thesystem continuously sequences nucleic acids of a third sample array.Thus, a first sample array can be individually added or removed from thesystem without interrupting sequencing reactions occurring at anothersample array, thereby providing the advantage of continuous sequencingfor the set of sample arrays. A further advantage is that sequencingruns of different lengths can be performed continuously andsimultaneously in the system because individual sample arrays cancomplete a different number of laps through the system and the samplearrays can be removed or added to the system in an independent fashionsuch that reactions occurring at other sites are not perturbed.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary detection station 38 designed to detectnucleotides added at sites (e.g. amplified nucleic acid sites, singlenucleic acid sites, detector sites, etc.) of an array in accordance witha presently contemplated optical system. As set forth above, a samplecan be moved to two or more stations of the device that are located inphysically different locations or alternatively one or more steps can becarried out on a sample that is in communication with the one or morestations without necessarily being moved to different locations.Accordingly, the description herein with regard to particular stationsis understood to relate to stations in a variety of configurationswhether or not the sample moves between stations, the stations move tothe sample, or the stations and sample are static with respect to eachother. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, one or more lightsources 46 provide light beams that are directed to conditioning optics48. The light sources 46 may include one or more lasers, with multiplelasers typically being used for detecting dyes that fluoresce atdifferent corresponding wavelengths. The light sources may direct beamsto the conditioning optics 48 for filtering and shaping of the beams inthe conditioning optics. For example, in a presently contemplatedembodiment, the conditioning optics 48 combine beams from multiplelasers and generate a generally linear beam of radiation that isconveyed to focusing optics 50. The laser modules can additionallyinclude a measuring component that records the power of each laser. Themeasurement of power may be used as a feedback mechanism to control thelength of time an image is recorded in order to obtain a uniformexposure energy, and therefore signal, for each image. If the measuringcomponent detects a failure of the laser module, then the instrument canflush the sample with a “holding buffer” to preserve the sample untilthe error in the laser can be corrected.

The sample 24 is positioned on a sample positioning system 52 that mayappropriately position the sample in three dimensions, and may displacethe sample for progressive imaging of sites on the sample array. In apresently contemplated embodiment, the focusing optics 50 confocallydirect radiation to one or more surfaces (e.g. confocallyfocusing/directing a beam of light at each individual site) of the arrayat which individual sites are located that are to be sequenced.Depending upon the wavelengths of light in the focused beam, a retrobeamof radiation is returned from the sample due to fluorescence of dyesbound to the nucleotides at each site.

The retrobeam is then returned through retrobeam optics 54 which mayfilter the beam, such as to separate different wavelengths in the beam,and direct these separated beams to one or more cameras 56. The cameras56 may be based upon any suitable technology, such as including chargecoupled devices that generate pixilated image data based upon photonsimpacting locations in the devices. The cameras generate image data thatis then forwarded to image processing circuitry 58. In general, theprocessing circuitry 58 may perform various operations, such asanalog-to-digital conversion, scaling, filtering, and association of thedata in multiple frames to appropriately and accurately image multiplesites at specific locations on the sample. The image processingcircuitry 58 may store the image data, and will ultimately forward theimage data to the post-processing system 30 where sequence data can bederived from the image data. Particularly useful detection devices thatcan be used at a detection station include, for example, those describedin US 2007/0114362 (U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/286,309) and WO07/123744, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIG. 4 illustrates a typical reaction cycle in a sequencing by synthesistechnique for oligonucleotides that may benefit from a nucleotiderecapture and recycling technique. In general, the synthesis operationsummarized in FIG. 4 may be performed on a sample 24 comprising asupport 60 on which a multitude of sites 62 and 64 are formed. Each sitecan be a same type of site (e.g. amplified nucleic acid sites, singlenucleic acid sites, detector sites, etc.) or may be comprised ofdifferent types of sites in a single array. In the preparation of eachsample 24, many such sites may be formed, each with unique fragments ofgenetic material as indicated generally by reference numeral 66. Thesefragments may constitute templates of DNA or RNA to be sequenced. Thefragments can be isolated from a biological source using methods knownin the art. In embodiments utilizing amplification methods, thefragments can be amplicons of a DNA or RNA isolated from a biologicalsource. Each template comprises a number of mers or bases 68 which willuniquely bind to a complimentary nucleotide (or analog thereof) duringthe synthesis process. The sequencing process begins with binding of ananchor primer 70 to each of the templates. This anchor primer includescomplementary bases 72 that bind with those of a portion of a templatesequence. The remaining portion of the template, designated generally byreference numeral 74, constitutes that portion to be sequenced. Thelength 76 of the portion to be sequenced may vary, with presentlycontemplated embodiments extending from 25 to 40 bases or even as manyas at least or up to 50, 75, 100, 200, 300, 500, or more than 500 bases.

As sequencing progresses, the introduced processed stream will includeall four common DNA nucleotides, one of which will add to the primer ata position that is opposite the next available base in the template, asindicated by reference numeral 78. The added nucleotide will include abase 80 that is complementary to the template as well as a fluorescenttag 82 and a blocking molecule 84. As will be noted by those skilled inthe art, as used herein, the term “nucleotides” in the illustratedprocesses will typically include units from which DNA molecules areconstructed. Although any nucleotides or oligonucleotides may berecaptured and recycled in accordance with the present technique, inmany practical applications these will includedeoxynucleotide-triphosphates (dNTP), each carrying a single nitrogenousbase (adenine, guanine, cytosine or thymine). The complementarynucleotide is added to the primer due to the activity of a polymerase,as indicated generally by reference numeral 86. Other nucleotides thanthe specific one binding to the template will also be present in theprocess fluid, as indicated generally by reference numerals 88, 90, and92 in FIG. 4. Nucleotides not binding to the templates will subsequentlybe washed from the sample in a flushing operation, exiting in theeffluent stream to be recaptured and recycled as described above.

The sequencing system utilized of the type described above for analysisof oligonucleotide sequences may be automated and regulated in a numberof ways. The present technique provides for automatic detection of anumber of parameters of such systems and control of the sequencingprocess based upon such parameters. In general, the performance andquality control implemented by any embodiment may allow for normalsequencing operations on one or many sample arrays, which may be alteredbased upon detected issues with performance or quality of the samplearray, performance of the fluidics control/delivery system, performanceof the detection system, and/or any subcomponent or subsystem of these.When exceptions or anomalies in quality or performance are detected, asdescribed in greater detail below, remedial measures may be taken tocorrect the system performance, re-sequence or re-run certain sequencingcycle steps, such as nucleotide addition, imaging, de-blocking and soforth, or even interrupt sequencing altogether. Because the sequencingwill represent an investment in terms of time and materials, theremedial measures may be adapted to continue sequencing if at allpossible, while taking steps to guard against pursuing a synthesisprocedure that is destined to fail or at least destined to produceresults that are not of sufficient value to warrant the time andmaterials spent. Thus, the remedial measures improve the likelihood thatreliable sequencing data will be obtained.

FIG. 5 represents exemplary logic for carrying out and controlling asequencing operation in accordance with this approach. The sequencingoperation denoted generally by reference numeral 94, begins with loadinga sample array in the sequencing system, as indicated at step 96. Asnoted above, a number of different approaches may be employed, as mayvarious configurations of arrays. In a presently contemplatedembodiment, for example, arrays of a multitude of genetically differentsites (e.g. amplified nucleic acid sites, single nucleic acid sites,detector sites, etc.) are employed, with each site being populated by amultitude of the same oligonucleotide, template, or fragment to besequenced (note that some sites—such as detector sites or nucleic acidsites with more than one type of oligonucleotide attached at eachsite—may be configured to detect more than one different sequence). Thearray may be loaded in a sample container and coupled to the fluidicscontrol/delivery system such that reagents and other process fluids canbe introduced to the sample and routed through the sample container forreactions (e.g., base addition and de-blocking), flushing, and so forth.

An array used in some embodiments can be any population of differentreaction sites (e.g. amplified nucleic acid sites, single nucleic acidsites, detector sites, etc.) that are present at one or more substratessuch that different reaction sites can be differentiated from each otheraccording to their relative location. Typically, a single species ofbiopolymer, such as a nucleic acid, is attached or otherwise couple toeach individual reaction site. However, multiple copies of a particularspecies of biopolymer can be attached at or coupled to a particularreaction site. The array taken as a whole will typically include aplurality of different biopolymers attached at or coupled to a pluralityof different sites. The reaction sites can be located at differentaddressable locations on the same substrate. Alternatively, an array caninclude separate substrates (such as beads, biological pores, etc.) eachbearing a different reaction site.

At step 98 in FIG. 5, then, bases or nucleotides (or oligonucleotides inthe case of processes such as sequencing-by-ligation orsequencing-by-hybridization) may be added to the sites in the array inaccordance with the particular sequencing approach adopted. Otherbiomolecule reagents used at this step can also be delivered including,for example, enzymes such as polymerase, ligase, luciferase,sulfurylase, nuclease, or other enzyme. Molecules other thanbiomolecules may also be added such as a chemical ligation molecule,luciferin, etc. For example, in SBS, polymerase and the four commonnucleotide types, each including blocking agents and unique fluorescentdyes are introduced to the sample array and are allowed to react withthe oligonucleotide templates at each site. As another example, labelednucleotides that are not blocked may be added (e.g. with a label thatcan be removed in real time such as through photobleaching or through anatural enzymatic process). In some embodiments, one or more enzymesused in the sequencing reaction may be immobilized with or near thefragment to be sequenced. Step 98 may also include, then, flushing thesamples of the polymerase and nucleotides once sufficient time haselapsed for the desired reactions. At step 100, the sites and the mostrecently attached nucleotides are detected. As noted above, thisdetection may be performed in a variety of manners such as opticaldetection. As also described above, the detection step can includeprogressively scanning the sites on the array to produce image datawhich is processed to identify individual sites and, ultimately, theidentity of the most recently attached nucleotides at each site.

At step 102, the logic determines whether the current cycle is theinitial sequencing cycle. As noted above, sequencing may include anumber of similar cycles of base addition, detection, and de-blocking(or a subset of these steps), with from 25 to 40 or even more suchcycles being presently contemplated. If the current cycle, then, is theinitial cycle, an initial cycle quality control routine is performed asindicated at step 104. This routine may be configured to determine oneor more qualities of the array as described in greater detail below withreference to FIG. 6. It should be noted that the initial cycle qualitycontrol routine may cause corrections to be made in the sequencingsystem, or may cause an alteration in the manner in which the individualsample array is handled. That is, certain steps may be re-performed, orsystem changes may be made based upon the initial cycle quality controlas described below.

Assuming that sequencing continues following the routine 104, the logicmay advance to step 106 where a routine is performed to evaluate thequality of the base addition steps of sequencing. Presently contemplateddetails of the base addition quality control routine 106 are describedbelow with reference to FIG. 7. In general however, the base additionquality control routine will evaluate parameters of the sequencingsystem to determine whether changes should be made to the systemoperating settings or whether sequencing could or should continue underthe same or different conditions. As with the initial cycle qualitycontrol 104, the base addition quality control routine 106 may result inre-performing certain sequencing steps or even aborting the sequencingprocess altogether.

In an alternative embodiment, step 106 can be performed after step 100and prior to step 102. This order may be advantageous if the queries andsteps involved in step 106 provide information that is useful inevaluating characteristics or qualities of samples and the system atstep 104. Furthermore, as set forth in further detail below in regard toFIGS. 6-8, different queries and steps exemplified for the various QCsteps of FIG. 5 can be carried out in different orders than specificallyexemplified herein or even repeated more than once and in a variety ofcombinations to suit a particular synthetic technique or synthesissystem.

At step 108, the logic may call for determining whether the currentcycle is the last cycle of sequencing. Several scenarios may beenvisaged for this step. For example, the sequencing system may beprogrammed to perform only a predetermined number of cycles, with thesequencing terminating after the predetermined number of cycles havebeen performed. Alternatively, the quality of certain data collected bythe system may be evaluated to determine whether data of a desiredquality is still being collected. That is, as summarized below, in thequality control routines presently contemplated, a signal-to-noise ratiomay be evaluated to determine whether the base addition operation andimaging operations can adequately distinguish the type of nucleotidethat is being added at individual sites. Where such addition, or imagequality, or the ability to distinguish between the nucleotides attachingat individual sites is at an undesirable level, the system may indicatethat the current cycle is to be the last cycle for sequencing of aparticular sample array. Other sequencing ending scenarios may, ofcourse, be implemented. If the current cycle is determined to be thelast cycle, then, end run programs may be performed as indicated at step110. In general, such programs may include processing of image data,exporting of data, notifying a human operator or robot to remove thesample array container from the system, and so forth.

If the current cycle is not determined to be the last sequencing cycle,the logic may advance to step 112 where the blocking agents and/orfluorescent dyes are removed from the last nucleotide added at eachsite. At step 114, then, the sites (e.g. amplified nucleic acid sites,single nucleic acid sites, detector sites, etc.) or waste in theeffluent stream may be detected for additional quality control. Forexample, the additional imaging of the sites or waste at step 114 may beused to determine whether the sites were adequately de-blocked bydetermining whether the dyes continue to fluoresce at each site (or atcontrol sites, as described below). Alternatively, detection of thewaste material may determine whether blocking agents that arefluorescent or that absorb radiation at a particular wavelength arepresent in the effluent stream at a sufficient level to indicate adesired level of de-blocking has occurred. Where such detection is notdesired, step 114 is optional and may be deleted from the process. Atstep 116, then, a quality control routine to evaluate the de-blockingoperation is performed. Details of a currently contemplated de-blockingquality control routine are described below with reference to FIG. 8.Following step 116, the logic may return to step 98 where additionalbases are added for a subsequent cycle of sequencing.

The logic for carrying out and controlling a sequencing operation aspresented in FIG. 5 and set forth above is merely exemplary. The logichas been exemplified in the context of particular sequencing techniques.It will be understood that the logic can be modified to accommodatedifferent sequencing techniques. For example, pyrosequencing techniquesare often carried out using nucleotides that do not have blockinggroups. Accordingly, logic for carrying out pyrosequencing need notinclude steps related to de-blocking such as steps identified as 112,114, and 116 in FIG. 5. As a further example, pyrosequencing techniquestypically utilize secondary enzymes for detection of releasedpyrophosphate, such enzymes including, for example, sulfurylase andluciferase. The logic for carrying out pyrosequencing can include addedsteps related to adding or removing secondary enzymes. Furthermore, QCsteps used in a pyrosequencing method can include steps that are relatedto querying the activity of the secondary enzymes and responding toinformation obtained from the query. Similar modification can be made tothe logic for carrying out other sequencing techniques that include useof secondary reagents, such as enzymes used for detection or nucleicacid modification. For example, cycles of sequencing-by-ligation, whichinclude a step of removing a portion of ligated probes using arestriction endonuclease or chemical cleavage of a nucleic acid strandafter detection and before initiation of a new cycle, can be covered bylogic that includes steps related to adding and removing the cleavingagent (such as the restriction endonuclease or chemical cleaving agent)or evaluating QC related to activity of the cleaving agent.

Throughout the sequencing process, a number of individual systemparameters may be monitored and regulated in a closed-loop or open-loopmanner. Again, an object of such monitoring and control is to allow forautomated or semi-automated sequencing through efficient reaction anddetection processes. In a presently contemplated embodiment, forexample, system diagnostic parameters might include temperature of thesample or the sample container, reagent temperature, temperatures atvarious locations in the instrumentation, reagent volumes and flowrates, power of light sources (particularly laser light sources), pHlevels downstream of the flow cell, humidity, vibration, presence ofozone, image intensities, focus quality, and so forth. Additionalparameters might include reagent pump pressure, the levels of reagentsremaining in reservoirs, presence of bubbles in a detection chamber(e.g., a flow cell), and computer storage space available, both forimaging data and sequence data. Moreover, in addition to these ongoingand regular checks, unusual process developments may be detected, suchas the opening of a door or other access panel at a sample insertion andretrieval station (see FIG. 2), fluid overflows, and so forth. In caseswhere the system determines that continuing the sequencing process wouldnot result in data being collected for each cycle, the system can makean automated decision to end the sequencing run or to flush reagentsthrough the flow cell to preserve the sample and enter a safe state thatpreserves the sample until data collection can be resumed. In particularembodiments, the system can indicate an error to an operator andoptionally suggest corrective measures. Alternatively or additionally,the system can make an automated diagnosis and response to the error.Thus, synthesis steps can be restarted and data collection continuedeither by operator intervention or by automated correction.

Transducers and circuitry for monitoring and controlling such parametersmay be generally similar to those available for other process systems.For example, any form of suitable temperature transducer may be used formonitoring sample, container, reagent, and instrument temperatures.Suitable flow meters may be used for monitoring reagent volumes andflows. Conventional pressure transducers may be used for detectingreagent pump pressures, back pressures, and so forth. Logic circuits forclosed-loop control or open-loop operator notification based upondetection of such parameters may include analog or digital circuits(e.g., programmed computers). In a presently contemplated embodiment,for example, the quality/process control system described above withreference to FIGS. 1 and 2 may perform these functions. As will beappreciated by those skilled in the art, the signals produced by thevarious transducers, where computer control is employed, will beconverted to digital values which can be compared to normal operatingranges, fault limits, alarm limits, and so forth. Where possible,closed-loop control may be employed to maintain temperatures, volumes,power levels, flow rates, pressures, and so forth within acceptableranges to permit continued sequencing. Where alarm or failure limits arereached, operation of the control routines preferably includesestablishing an exception or error log and storing events in the errorlog so as to permit later evaluation of the performance and operation ofthe sequencer during particular sequencing steps, over periods of time,and so forth.

Closed-loop control of such parameters may be performed to enhance thesequencing process. For example, in a presently contemplated embodiment,the fluidics control/delivery system 18 may include heaters or coolersthat can provide reagents and other fluids at desired temperatures toenhance and promote reactions with samples in the arrays. For example,heaters may be provided for elevating the temperature of the sampleduring certain portions of the sequencing process, and such temperaturesmay be regulated for the process fluids as well. Thermal transferdevices, such as heaters, coolers, heat exchangers, and so forth may beemployed for this purpose. Other closed-loop control may be performedbased upon the target parameters for the individual steps in thesequencing operation. Those skilled in the art will recognize, as well,that such parameters may be combined to determine when the sequencingsystem is operating properly, when sequencing can proceed, or when oneor more such parameters is out of a normal range to the extent thatsequencing should not proceed. In such cases, samples may be preservedat least for some duration of time until the sequencing system isoperative within its desired parameters.

FIG. 6 illustrates exemplary logic that might be included in a qualitycontrol routine for an initial cycle of sequencing. The initial cyclequality control routine 104 may be designed to examine characteristicsor qualities of samples and sample arrays to determine whetherhigh-quality and sufficient sequencing data can be obtained. In apresently contemplated embodiment, for example, the routine may beginwith a query as indicated at step 118 to determine whether too few sites(e.g. amplified nucleic acid sites, single nucleic acid sites, detectorsites, etc.) are present and detectable in the array. This step mayrefer to an acceptable range or number of sites that make sequencing ofthe array economical in terms of the amount of data that can becollected for the amount of time and materials required to process thearray. The query made at step 118 will typically be based upon thedetection made at step 100 summarized with reference to FIG. 5. By wayof example only, in a presently contemplated embodiment, an acceptablenumber of sites on which sequencing may be performed may be about 10million sites/cm² or may be in a range between about 5 million sites/cm²and 100 million sites/cm², although developing technologies will likelyincrease the upper end of this range in most cases to 1000 millionsites/cm² or higher. The density of sites (for example, beads) on anarray can also be evaluated in terms of percent capacity such that anacceptable number of sites is indicated by a capacity between, forexample, 35% and 100% (100% or full capacity being based on the idealcase where sites are evenly distributed and at a distance that is justsufficient to allow adjacent sites to be distinguished). The positionsof the beads or other sites may be regularly spaced with a knownseparation between individual sites (e.g. spaced wells—nanowells,microwells, etc.; ordered binding sites, ordered nanopores, orderedbinding sites, etc.), or a random distribution, for example, an array ofamplified clusters, a random array of beads on a surface, a randomdistribution of nanopores, etc.

If too few sites are detected or discernible from the imaging ordetection operations performed in the initial cycle, control may bedirected to step 120 where queries may be made of the fluid delivery ordetection systems, or both systems, or other systems of the sequencer.In general, a particular density of sites or clusters will be desired.If the detected number of such sites is low or lower than desired, thismay be indicated by a count of the number of sites or by determiningthat a number of “dark” pixels or “dark” circuits (e.g., pixels orcircuits not apparently indicative of the presence of a site) is above aceiling. Such occurrences could be due to parameters of the fluiddelivery system or the detection system, or both, as well as otherparameters of the sequencer. For example, absence of detected sites maybe due to inadequate delivery of labeled nucleotides to the array sampleor due to improper focusing of the imaging system. The query performedat step 120, then, may examine operational parameters of the typedescribed above to determine whether proper operation is possible.Following such determinations, alterations in the system settings may beperformed, and the sample may be returned for re-focusing andre-imaging, if necessary, as indicated at step 122. Similarly, thesystem may be returned for re-delivery of biomolecule reagents at step98.

It should be noted that throughout the present discussion, and indeedfor all of the quality control routines summarized in the presentdiscussion, one or more of the responses may be performed, and suchresponses may be performed in any logical order where appropriate. Forexample, for the query of the delivery and detection systems, and there-focus/re-image routine described above, these may be performed inparallel in any sequence. Moreover, for these and for other routinesperformed, the present discussion should not be considered as limiting.Depending upon the parameter data collected, the sequencing techniquebeing used and the possible cause of anomalies in operation of thesystem or in the sequencing data obtained, other routines may beperformed as well. Similarly, it may be advantageous to perform someroutines before others. For example, a quick check of the operationalparameters of the system, noting slight anomalies that have beencorrected, may be more efficient than recycling the sample in aretrograde fashion back to an imaging station as would be called for atstep 122 (assuming that the sample had been moved from the detection orimaging station). Finally, it should be noted that certain of the stepswill clearly call for repeating of certain sequencing operations,altering certain sequencing operations, or even aborting sequencing ofthe particular sample as denoted by the arrows extending to the right inFIGS. 6, 7, and 8. It may be considered that following the variousresponse routines described herein, a determination is made as towhether the condition that led to the action has been remedied, suchthat sequencing may proceed albeit by the return of the sample to apreceding operation.

In addition to determining whether too few sites are present in thesample, the initial cycle quality control routine, examining qualitiesof the sample, may determine whether too many sites or an uneven sitedistribution is present, as indicated generally at reference numeral124. Because certain sample preparation techniques may result in anoverabundance of sites, or sites that may too closely approach oneanother, there may be a desired limit to the number of sites in aparticular sample, or to the relative density or congestion of sites inone or more regions of the array. Other indicators of sample qualitythat can be queried at this step include the size, shape, or morphologyof sites. Typically, sites will have an expected size, shape, ormorphology and deviations can be indicative of a particular problem. Forexample, if sites are too densely packed then a large fraction of siteswill overlap each other such that overlapped sites appear as a singlesite having an apparent size that is larger than the size expected for asingle discrete site. Similarly, sites that overlap can be identified byan apparent shape that is different than expected for a single site,such as in the case of typically circular sites that will appear as asingle hourglass shape when two sites overlap. Other aberrations insize, shape, or morphology of sites can be indicative of problems inpreparation of the array that occurred prior to loading the array in thesystem such as insufficient amplification at one or more sites orexcessive amplification at one or more sites. If, upon the evaluation ofthe data collected at step 100 in FIG. 5, it is determined that too manysites or an undesirable site distribution is present, several approachesmay be envisaged in response. At step 126, for example, the fluiddelivery and detection systems may be again queried in a manner similarto that discussed with reference to step 120 above. Moreover, theimaging/detection system may be re-focused, particularly if thedetection data indicates that inadequate or unreliable image data wasobtained that may have led to the determination at step 124. There-focusing and re-imaging step 128 may be essentially similar to thatperformed at step 122 above, and may require return of the sample to theimaging station if it has been moved from the imaging/detection station.

Another response to the presence of too many sites or an uneven sitedistribution could be the masking of certain regions or sites andignoring image data from such regions during processing. The maskingresponse, indicated at step 130, would generally include development ofa digital mask for the pixilated images in which particular locationscorresponding to particular sites are designated by a first value, andsites to be analyzed are designated by a second value. Such a binarymask would generally be stored as a lookup table that permits comparisonof the location of mask pixels in subsequent sequencing cycles so thatdata for such locations would not be processed for analysis andsequencing. It is possible, however, that such masking could result inelimination of too many sites or even large regions of the sample arrayfrom sequencing such that pursuing further processing of the sample isnot economical or is otherwise undesirable. At step 132, then, it may bedesirable to determine whether the masking has resulted in too fewsites. As with step 118, this inquiry may essentially consist ofdetermining whether the number of remaining sites after digital maskingmake sequencing worthwhile in terms of the amount of data that can becollected. If too few sites are available for sequencing after themasking of step 130, the mask may be re-evaluated as indicated at step134, such as to determine whether certain sites can be reliablysequenced. The mask may then be altered accordingly and sequencing mayproceed. If too few sites are available for sequencing, sequencing maybe interrupted altogether.

The amount of image data processed during sequencing operations tends tobe massive and even quite overwhelming at times. As such, analysis ofthe data can prove somewhat onerous unless the data is collected,organized, and managed efficiently. Therefore, it may be advantageous toprocess the data such that useful data is saved and prepared for furtherprocessing while discarding data which has a high probability of notbeing useful. Accordingly, the use of masking, as well as other imageprocessing utilities, may be coordinated to attain the overall goal ofworthwhile sequencing data. With this in mind, it should be noted thatthe image data collected may be processed in various ways. For example,areas on a test sample may be selected to be imaged while other areasmay be selected to be bypassed. If this type of selective imaging isdone, several different options may be used to handle the data. In oneembodiment, image data for only the areas flagged as areas of interestmay be collected while image data for other areas may not be collected,or may be collected but not retained or not analyzed. In an alternativeembodiment, image data may be collected for all areas of the sample butthe data may be stored in different locations. For instance, the imagedata flagged as areas of interest may be stored in a first databasewhich is used for sequencing analysis whereas the other image data maybe stored in a second database. In addition, logging of image datacollection may follow similar procedures, such as only logging activityfor certain imaging or logging activity for all imaging but saving thelogs in various locations. Also, the selective processing of image datamay be based on any parameter collected during sequencing operationsincluding, but not limited to, chemistry parameters, environmentalparameters, and so forth. Therefore, in general, the image data may behandled using various selective processing schemes based on variousprocesses including, but not limited to, the masking methods discussedabove.

If any of the responses indicated at steps 126, 128, 130, or 134, or theresponse to the query 132 enable sequencing to proceed, then, theinitial cycle quality control routine may be exited and sequencing maycontinue as summarized above with reference to FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 illustrates exemplary logic for performing a base additionquality control routine 106 as described generally above with respect toFIG. 5. The routine may be performed at various stages in sequencing butwill likely be performed after imaging of the array in each sequencingcycle but before image data is used to determine sequence data. Theroutine is essentially designed to determine whether the detectionprocess proceeded as desired, or whether sequencer parameters should beadjusted to provide for improved imaging and detection. Because thequality of the detection performed on the sample will ultimately affectthe quality of the sequencing data, it may be desirable thathigh-quality images be returned and it may be most useful to performsuch base addition quality control routines for each and everysequencing cycle. Moreover, as discussed above, the routine may be atleast one of the considerations in determining whether sequencing shouldcontinue or whether the present or even the previous sequencing cycleshould be considered the last reliable cycle in which sequencing datashould be retained or evaluated.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, an initial query 136 determineswhether the general image quality is acceptable. For example, while asharp image, and particularly a consistently sharp image over the lengthand width of the array is desired, such factors as poor focus may resultin an unacceptably blurred image. The evaluation of image quality maytake a number of forms. In a presently contemplated embodiment, forexample, a focus score is attributed to each image. The focus score maybe based upon sharpness of the image, sharpness of particular featuresor marks in the image, anticipated structures visible in the image,gradients of intensities or colors detectable in the image, and soforth. Image quality can be based on an image of all or part of thearray. An advantage of evaluating only a part of the array is that animage can be obtained more rapidly for purposes of determining qualityprior to expending the time on obtaining a full image. If the imagequality is found to be unacceptable, steps 138 and 140, or othersuitable steps, may be performed in response. Steps 138 and 140 maygenerally correspond to steps 120 and 122 described above with referenceto FIG. 6. That is, the fluid delivery and/or detection systems may beevaluated to determine whether their operating parameters are within theacceptable ranges, or the imaging system may be re-focused and thesample returned for imaging if it has been displaced from the imagingstation.

Another aspect of image quality that may be monitored is the presence ofbubbles within the sample. If bubbles are detected, the image data, orportions of they data, may not be adequate for further processing. Forinstance, the image data may appear to have blurry regions or regionswhere detected colors are indistinguishable. Furthermore, the presenceof bubbles may signify an underlying problem with a particular sample.For instance, the bubbles may be impeding the nucleotides from attachingto the sample. The presence of bubbles may be monitored within the fluidchannel via a photodiode or other detector such as one that isconfigured to monitor changes in the signal received at the dioderesponsive to the refractive index differences between air and liquid.If bubbles are detected, any number of suitable response steps may beperformed. For instance, the situation may warrant returning the sampleto a particular fluidics station and performing the base addition stepagain. In cases where the channels are filled from top-bottom with airrather than liquid, it is possible to automatically adjust the focaldepth to restore the focus of the “dry” image, or simply to flow moreliquid through the channel in order to remove the air bubble. Anotherpossible response may include masking of certain regions or sites (e.g.amplified nucleic acid sites, single nucleic acid sites, detector sites,etc.) and ignoring image data for regions or sites determined to containbubbles. Yet another response may include interrupting sequencingoperations on the sample if it is determined that the bubbles are such adetriment that proper imaging is no longer possible.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable to have bubbles. For example,bubbles may be used to separate reaction components in a system. A lackof bubbles may indicate that the reaction components are not adequatelyseparated from each other. In this case, the quality detection systemmay take action (cease sequencing, ignore data, etc.) if bubbles are notdetected. The bubbles may be air bubbles, oil bubbles, or some othertype of bubble. A bubble may be formed in any shape and/or of any size.

It should be noted that a query similar to that of step 136, andresponses such as those summarized at steps 138 and 140 may also be partof the initial cycle quality control routine summarized above withreference to FIG. 6. That is, it may be possible that the control ofquality of the samples is compromised by poor functioning of the fluiddelivery system or the detection system. In such cases, routines such asthose intended at steps 138 and 140 may also be performed to ensure thatthe sample quality evaluation proceeds on the basis of reliableinformation. Where desired, the parameters of the sequencing system maybe adjusted and the sample may be re-imaged, and the sample qualityre-evaluated based upon improved input data.

As noted above, the sample arrays may be designed to facilitate certaintypes of quality control. For example, control clusters or sites may beincluded in the array that have known sequences of nucleotides. Suchknown sequences may, for example, be repeating sequences of the fourcommon DNA nucleotides. Alternatively, such control sites may includehomopolymer sequences of a single nucleotide type. The quality controlperformed in the routine 106 may rely upon expected results for suchcontrols during successive sequencing and imaging steps carried out inparallel with sites of unknown composition for which sequenceinformation is desired. As indicated at step 142, then, evaluation ofsuch control sites may be made to determine whether the anticipatedaddition of a base has been detected. Because the sequence of suchcontrol sites is known, such evaluation may determine, for example, thatno base was added, the wrong base was added, or a low yield for basecoupling was detected (e.g., an anticipated characteristic dye color ata control site was weak in intensity or was obscured by another color).Another type of control that can be included is a site having a labelmoiety directly attached. For example, in embodiments directed tosequencing using fluorescent labels, a site can include the fluorescentlabels directly attached (i.e. not via a hybridized oligonucleotide) toserve as a control for detection quality that is independent of otheraspects of the sequencing chemistry (such as efficiency of hybridizationand nucleotide addition).

The failure to add a base may be indicated by a single intensity in theimage data that is below a desired threshold. The addition of a wrongbase may be indicated by a different color signal being detected in theimage data (e.g., at a control site) than was anticipated. An indicatorfor a low yield base coupling may, as indicated above, be a signalintensity that is lower than expected, similar to the test for no basehaving been added. The expected intensity can be a particular thresholdlevel that remains unchanged for all cycles. Alternatively, thethreshold level can be reduced at each cycle in accordance with anacceptable loss of yield at each step or in accordance with anempirically determined loss of yield determined from the signal detectedfrom one or more previous cycles, as described for example in regard tosignal-to-noise (S/N) ratio below.

Several responses may be envisaged for improving sequencing, image data,or sequence data where query 142 determines that the imaging of controlsites was defective. For example, as indicated at step 144, the systemmay query the fluid delivery and detection systems to determine whetheroperating parameters are within acceptable ranges. Alternatively, or inaddition to this step, the base addition process may be repeated asindicated at step 146. In general, step 146, as with the re-imagingsteps described above, may require that the sample be returned to afluidics station for addition of the bases.

In addition, several parameters may be used to help monitor imaging andsequencing operations. As mentioned in various passages throughout thisdisclosure, these may include parameters relating to chemistry (e.g.,evaluating reagent delivery), parameters relating to fiducials (e.g.,control clusters), sample site parameters (e.g., site quality,distribution, shape, number, and so forth), and temperature parameters(e.g., fluid temperature, array temperature, instrument temperature, andso forth). However, many other parameters may prove useful inascertaining how successfully the sequencing operations are proceeding.For instance, various environmental parameters may be monitored toprovide input as to how external factors may be affecting sequencingoperations. These environmental parameters may include, withoutlimitation, humidity, external power sources, temperature, vibration,and so forth. In addition, it may prove useful to monitor pH levelsdownstream of the flow cell. Doing so may yield insight as to howeffectively the steps of base addition, blocking, de-blocking, andwashing are progressing. It may also be desirable to monitor any phasingoccurring between the individual sample sites. For instance, individualcopies of a sequence at a sample site may experience cycles wherenucleotides do not attach. The result is a site having heterogeneity inthe length of the extended species. If at each cycle the number oftruncated copies increases, then eventually the fraction of copies atthe site that have been extended at every cycle is reduced. This resultsin the site having copies that are out of phase and a perceivedreduction in S/N ratio. Eventually, this may lead to a situation wherethe S/N ratio degrades to such a level that sequencing data becomesunreliable. Early detection of flow cells that show high levels of siteshaving phasing problems can allow measures to be taken to ensure thesample is not completely lost, for example changing the sequencingreagents or checking the fluidics of the instrument. Alternatively oradditionally, a decision can be made to halt reagent delivery to asample having an undesirable number of out of phase sites. This canprovide the advantage of reducing sample waste. Tracking prematurephasing problems can provide the basis for a determination of thefunctionality of the instrument which can be responded to by alterationsmade by an operator or in an automated fashion according to predictedcauses.

A further query that may be made in the base addition quality controlroutine is indicated at step 148, and may consist of determining whetherthe S/N ratio is within an acceptable limit. In general, as noted above,detection of colors of fluorescent dyes for individual sites may be abasis for determination of sequence data, and the ability to accuratelydetect such colors may be important for obtaining reliable sequencedata. A poor S/N ratio may be determined, for example, by comparingintensities or colors for individual sites, or for control sites, to S/Nratios for similar sites in previous cycles. It may be anticipated that,due to a statistically acceptable decay in yield for nucleotide couplingover a series of sequencing cycles, a normal decay in S/N ratio shouldbe anticipated. Indeed, the determination of whether sequencing shouldproceed through an additional cycle or even whether sequence data orimage data should be analyzed or stored for a current cycle may bedetermined by reference to the decay in the S/N ratio or in an objectivelimit of this ratio. Where the S/N ratio decays abnormally or in acatastrophic manner, several responses may be in order, for example achange of reagents such as the scanning buffer on the instrument beforeundertaking a further cycle of sequencing chemistry and detection. Itshould be noted that as an alternative, or in addition to analyzing thedecay in the S/N ratio, a decay in a signal from de-blocking agents inan effluent stream may be made.

Responses to a decrease in S/N ratio detected at step 148, in additionto termination of sequencing, may include querying the fluid deliveryand detection systems as indicated at step 150, such as to determinewhether the systems are operating within their normal parameters, orshould be adjusted to permit further sequencing. Alternatively, or inaddition to this, the sample may be re-imaged with a higher exposurelevel (e.g., higher power output for the light sources), a highersensitivity in the detection algorithms, or a change in any otherparameter that might permit the S/N ratio to be improved (step 152). Forexample, the time of exposure may be lengthened to allow for morephotons to be collected in particular images. It may also be desirableto alter imaging parameters such as the scan rate to allow for sites tobe more accurately detected, or in higher resolution. Other parametersthat can be changed are the conditions for nucleotide addition. Forexample, as the S/N ratio reduces, each subsequent cycle can be carriedout with longer incubation times or increased concentration of reagentsto help better drive the nucleotide addition reaction to completion.Also, reaction conditions such as temperature, salt concentrations,concentrations of other elements, mixed use of label bearing andnon-label bearing nucleotides, and other reaction conditions may bealtered. If the S/N ratio can be improved in such manners to anacceptable level, sequencing may continue.

FIG. 8 illustrates presently contemplated logic for a de-block qualitycontrol routine 116, as discussed generally above with reference to FIG.5, if blocked nucleotides or oligonucleotides are used. In general, thisroutine is designed to determine whether dyes and de-blocking agents(e.g. agents that removing a blocking structure from a nucleotide,agents that cleave one or more blocked nucleotides from the sequence,etc.) have been adequately removed from the last added nucleotides atthe individual sites such that another nucleotide can be added in asubsequent sequencing cycle, and to ensure that the dyes of previouslyadded nucleotides will not interfere with imaging of subsequently addednucleotides. As before, several queries may be in order to determinewhether de-blocking has been adequately performed. At step 154, forexample, a query may be made as to whether an image made afterde-blocking is adequate for analysis. As discussed above with referenceto step 136 of FIG. 7, several factors may cause insufficiently sharp ordetailed images to be obtained. In a manner similar to response 138 and140 of FIG. 7, then, the fluid delivery and detection systems may bequeried, and the imaging system used to image the sample afterde-blocking may be re-focused and sample may be re-imaged, as indicatedat steps 156 and 158, respectively. As will be appreciated by thoseskilled in the art, the fluid delivery system examined at step 156,however, will be evaluated to determine whether reagents for cleavingde-blocking agents and fluorescent dyes is operating within normallimits or in a desired manner.

If the responses at steps 156 and 158 can adequately remedy thecondition, a subsequent query 160 may be made. Step 160 is essentiallysimilar to step 148 summarized above with reference to FIG. 7. That is,the system may determine whether a S/N ratio is sufficiently high topermit proper analysis of de-blocking. If the ratio is not sufficientlyhigh or is not within an acceptable range, responses may include againquerying the fluid delivery and detection systems, and re-imaging thede-blocked sample with modified imaging settings, as indicated at steps162 and 164, respectively.

A further query in the exemplary routine 116 may include determiningwhether de-blocking agents have been sufficiently removed, as indicatedat step 166. Two tests are presently contemplated for such evaluation,which may be performed in the alternative or both tests may beperformed. In general, a first test may be based upon evaluation ofcontrol sites of the type discussed above. Such sites may be imaged todetermine whether the anticipated color change (e.g., essentially thedisappearance of the site from the image) has occurred. If the controlsites do not indicate that effective de-blocking was performed, thede-blocking operation may be repeated as indicated at step 168. Again,repeat of the de-blocking operation may require return of the sample toa de-blocking station. If desired, sites other than control sites canalso be imaged so as to query whether or not de-blocking has occurred.

Another test for de-blocking may be the evaluation of de-blocking agentsin waste or an effluent stream following the de-blocking step. As willbe appreciated by those skilled in the art, blocking agents may becoupled to dyes that become active and can fluoresce once the blockingagent has been removed from the nucleotides. The blocking agent can alsobe detectable in the effluent by absorbance at a particular wavelength.The waste stream may be tested, for example using an inline detectordirected to the effluent stream, to determine whether sufficientblocking agent is detected in the waste stream. If insufficient blockingagent is detected, the possible responses may be to query theperformance Parameters of the fluid delivery system of the processfluids used for the de-blocking reaction and/or to repeat thede-blocking operation, as indicated at steps 170 and 172, respectively.Depending upon the sequencing chemistry used, a single moiety on theadded nucleotides may serve as both blocking group for preventingextension and as a label for detecting nucleotide addition or,alternatively, added nucleotides can have separate label and blockingmoieties. The methods set forth herein with regard to determiningremoval of a blocking group are intended to be illustrative of methodsfor determining removal of a label moiety and/or blocking moiety eitherseparately or together. For example, in embodiments using separate labeland blocking moieties, the moieties can be removed and detectedseparately or together in the effluent using methods similar to thoseexemplified above with regard to detecting a blocking group.

It should be noted that in all of the steps summarized in FIGS. 6, 7,and 8, logs of the operations performed and any remedial measures taken,are preferably kept. The logs may also be associated with the individualsamples, and may be time-stamped to evaluate proper performance of thesequencing system. Where the sequencing operation is attended or can beattended by one or more operators, notification by visual or audiblealarms may be provided to the operator indicating that attention to oneor more samples or attention to one or more stations in the sequencingsystem may be in order.

It should also be noted that a substantial temporal decoupling of thesequencing steps and remedial measures taken in the quality controlroutines may exist in accordance with some embodiments. That is, whilesequencing systems may be established to process multiple samples andsample containers, these need not be processed through the system in anyparticular order, or even at the same rate. Based upon the quality ofthe sample, process parameters, and the outcome of the various qualitycontrol steps and routines, for example, certain samples may undergosome degree of regressive flow through the sequencing stations andsequencing steps. In certain cases, samples may be set aside or left outof the system for certain periods of time for evaluation of either thesample or the system, or both. The system control circuitry ispreferably designed to track individual samples and the sequencingperformed regardless of whether samples are taken out of sequence, takenin various times, or even whether samples require longer or shortertimes for the various reactions, imaging, evaluation, and so forth. Suchtemporal decoupling may be an important feature in promoting efficientoperation and high throughput of automated or semi-automated parallelsequencing of samples.

While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated anddescribed herein, many modifications and changes will occur to thoseskilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appendedclaims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as failwithin the true spirit of the invention.

For example, while much of the discussion was directed to opticaldetection systems, the features described with respect to the opticaldetection system may be utilized in non-optical detection systems aswell. As another example, while sequencing by synthesis was used to helpillustrate certain features of some embodiments, these features may alsobe used in sequencing systems that use a method other than sequencing bysynthesis. As still another example, while much of the disclosure hasbeen directed to a sequencing by synthesis method that uses blockednucleotides, the features of the exemplary method (other than anucleotide de-blocking step) are equally applicable to other methodsthat sequence a DNA while it is synthesized that do not use blockednucleotides (e.g. pyrosequencing).

1-23. (canceled)
 24. A method for sequencing nucleic acids, comprising(a) providing a sequencing system comprising (i) a plurality of stationsconfigured to carry out manipulations in a nucleic acid sequencingprocedure, (ii) a table having multiple sites configured to acceptnucleic acid arrays, and (iii) a first nucleic acid array at a firstsite on the table; (b) causing relative movement between the table andthe plurality of stations, wherein different stations of the pluralityof stations carry out different steps of the sequencing procedure on thefirst nucleic acid array, thereby completing at least one cycle of thesequencing procedure on the first nucleic acid array; (c) providing asecond nucleic acid array to a second site on the table after completingthe at least once cycle of the sequencing procedure for the firstnucleic acid array; (d) causing relative movement between the table andthe plurality of stations, wherein different stations of the pluralityof stations carry out different steps of the sequencing procedure on thefirst nucleic acid array and on the second nucleic acid array, therebycompleting a further cycle of the sequencing procedure on the firstnucleic acid array and completing at least one cycle of the sequencingprocedure on the second nucleic acid array; (e) replacing the firstnucleic acid array with a third nucleic acid array at the first site;(f) causing relative movement between the table and the plurality ofstations, wherein different stations of the plurality of stations carryout different steps of the sequencing procedure on the second nucleicacid array and on the third nucleic acid array, thereby completing afurther cycle of the sequencing procedure on the second nucleic acidarray and completing at least one cycle of the sequencing procedure onthe third nucleic acid array.
 25. The method of claim 24, whereinrelative movement between the table and the plurality of stations iscaused by an automated system controller interface.
 26. The method ofclaim 24, wherein sequencing data is obtained from the second nucleicacid array while reagents are being delivered to the first nucleic acidarray.
 27. The method of claim 24, wherein each of the stations isconfigured to carry out a different step of the nucleic acid sequencingprocedure.
 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the stations in theplurality of stations are in a fixed order and at fixed intervalsrelative to each other.
 29. The method of claim 28, wherein the sites ofthe multiple sites are in a fixed order and at fixed intervals relativeto each other on the table.
 30. The method of claim 29, wherein thefixed order of the stations and the relative movement between the tableand the plurality of stations correlates with the order and duration ofreaction steps in the nucleic acid sequencing procedure.
 31. The methodof claim 27, wherein each lap completed by a nucleic acid array throughthe sequencing system corresponds to determination of a singlenucleotide for each target nucleic acid on the nucleic acid array. 32.The method of claim 24, wherein the table is a circular table.
 33. Themethod of claim 24, wherein the relative movement comprises rotation ofthe table.
 34. The method of claim 24, wherein sequencing data isobtained from the second nucleic acid array while the first nucleic acidarray is being replaced.
 35. The method of claim 24, wherein each cycleof the nucleic acid sequencing procedure comprises addition of a singlenucleotide to target nucleic acids of a nucleic acid array, detection ofthe nucleic acid array and de-blocking of the nucleotide that was addedto the nucleic acid.
 36. The method of claim 24, wherein the providingof the second nucleic acid array to the second site on the table,comprises placing a substrate at the second site and amplifying nucleicacids on the substrate to form the second nucleic acid array.
 37. Themethod of claim 24, wherein the first nucleic acid array comprises anarray of nucleic acid clusters on a surface.
 38. The method of claim 24,wherein the first nucleic acid array comprises an array of beadsattached to different nucleic acids.
 39. The method of claim 24, whereinthe nucleic acid arrays are provided to the sites on the table when thesites are at an insertion or retrieval station.
 40. The method of claim39, wherein the nucleic acid arrays are provided to the sites by robot.41. The method of claim 24, wherein fluids are removed from the multiplesites independent of the location of the sites in the system.
 42. Themethod of claim 24, wherein the plurality of stations comprises anoptical detector, and the nucleic acid sequencing procedure comprisesoptical detection of the nucleic acid arrays.
 43. The method of claim42, wherein the nucleic acid sequencing procedure comprises detectingfluorescent dyes that are added to nucleic acids on the nucleic acidarrays.
 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the nucleic acid sequencingprocedure comprises removing the fluorescent dyes from nucleic acids onthe nucleic acid arrays.
 45. The method of claim 24, wherein the nucleicacid sequencing procedure is selected from the group consisting ofpyrosequencing, sequencing by synthesis, sequencing by ligation andsequencing by hybridization.